Oklahoma State Fair

It was bound to happen. The culture that submerges potatoes, battered chicken and even ice cream into searing oil has finally taken a refreshing, guiltless summer pleasure and deep-fried it – watermelon, which will be served with a marshmallow cream sauce. You know you want to try it as you stroll the attractions at this year’s Oklahoma State Fair, opening Thursday, Sept. 12, at Oklahoma State Fair Park, 3001 General Pershing Blvd. The rides are back, along with livestock shows, midway games, concerts, Pro Rodeo Xtreme Bulls, Disney on Ice, art exhibits and so much more. New this year are the Swampmaster Alligator Show, speed painter Richard Hight, the Farmyard Follies with the zoo crew and the Voice of the Fair poetry and vocal contests. The fair runs through Sept. 22, and regular admission is $5-$9 each or $25 for season passes. Gates open daily at 8 a.m., but be sure to check out the full schedule at www.okstatefair.com.